On that Olympic note, I'd like to pass along these comments from Australian cyclist Cadel Evans (Davitamon-Lotto) about what an accomplishment it is to finish the Tour:

"I remember walking into the opening ceremony at the Atlanta Games and Stephen Hodge said to me that the final day in Paris was even bigger. I thought 'oh yeah.' Well it certainly is something different. It's because you've made it to Paris and through all you've been through over the 3000 kms, it's kinda harder than qualifying for the Olympics I think."